Super Bowl, Signing Day and The Bible

By Mike Szvetitz
Sports Editor, Opelika-Auburn News
Published: February 5, 2008

First things first.

I TOLD YOU SO!!!

I’m not one to gloat. Never. No, I’m one to gloat, rub it in, jump up and down, scream and clap my hands.

If you read my column Sunday, I told you the Giants were going to win the Super Bowl and why. Why? Because they were the underdogs, and you’ve got to love the underdog.

But also, because of Plax Burress’ guarantee. You’ve got to love a guarantee, especially coming from a guy wearing a white ski cap and sunglasses inside. (NOTE: That’s what Plax was wearing during Media Day last week, when he predicted the Giants would win 23-17 over the previously undefeated Patriots).

So, he got the score wrong. Whatever.

I was right. That’s right! Whooooooo!!!

Sorry, for the excitement, I’m not right very often, just ask my wife.

** Here’s something I wanted to point out. I eluded to it in my column in today’s Opelika-Auburn News, but wanted to explain it here.

OK, just stay with me all you Biblical scholars.

In the Book of Samuel, the prophet anoints the youngest son of Jessie (David, maybe you’ve heard of him). Anyway, out of all Jessie’s sons, David was the least thought of. Well, remember, it was David who slayed Goliath and became the King. You with me so far?

OK, well, I made reference the the New York Giants were like David, beating Goliath (the Patriots) in Sunday’s Super Bowl. And that Eli Manning (the youngest of the Manning clan, and the least thought of—with brother Peyton stealing most of the spotlight, and even father, Archie, getting more love) was the one who finished off New England with a MVP-worthy final drive.

I thought that was kind of cool, maybe a little stretch, but still cool. Well, do you know who played a major role in Samuel’s life? That’s right, it was Eli.

Let that soak in. OK, I’ve got more time on my hands than most people.

** Right now, I’m on the verge of getting tomorrow’s paper, and our office, ready for National Signing Day. It’s a great day. Like I said in today’s column, it’s one of my favorite days of the year.

It’s great to see these players realize their dreams of playing college football. And it’s especially cool for the parents and families who have supported these athletes their whole lives.

Today, at the Opelika-Auburn News, we are hosting a luncheon to honor all our local high school athletes signing scholarships, along with their families. It’s going to be a great day, and I’m excited.

Check back tomorrow for some musings from our annual Signing Day Extravaganza.